Maker: Karlin of Karlin Art

My parents are out of town, and like any good daughter would do, I raided their fridge last night for some things to take home to my house. Why is it that the food at my mom’s house will always be better than the food at mine? So I’m sitting here, with a cup of coffee, heaped with whipped cream {thanks mom!} and waiting for the bustle of my day to start. It’s raining outside {again – but I’m not complaining!} and instead of getting ready for a day of carpool, school work, grocery shopping and all the other things that usually make up my Monday, I just want to curl up with my book and a heavy blanket and read. I want to drink my coffee, kick off my shoes and dive into another world for the day. It’s just one of those days.

But since I can’t do that, I’ll do the next best thing, and introduce you to Karlin. She’s got some amazing talent. Sit back, enjoy your hot beverage, and enjoy her art on this rainy Monday.

{Angie}

 

Please introduce yourself.

Hello! My name is Karlin Jones and I’m an illustrator and jewelry artist based in Los Angeles. I was born in the Middle East, lived in Europe and finally ended up in Southern California as a child. I have a degree in Fine Art and have spent most of my life happily involved in art in one way or another. My interests and inspirations include natural history, curiosities, childhood nostalgia and the female spirit.

What do you make or do?

I draw and paint using pencil, watercolor, acrylics and oils. My illustrations are often colorful and idealized; however, I do like to add a touch of dark humor and whimsy when I can. I enjoy creating narratives that are both familiar and mysterious. I also make artisan jewelry that ranges in styles from vintage-inspired to modern bohemian.

Where can we find your creations?

You can find my website and shop at www.karlinart.com. Aside from selling original work and prints, I have a line of greeting cards under Karlin Collette Designs available at Vroman’s Bookstore in Pasadena, CA as well as Book Soup in West Hollywood, CA. My art Facebook page is https://www.facebook.com/KarlinColletteArt and my jewelry Instagram page is jones_jewelry.

How long have you been creating and is it your full-time job?

I have been drawing my whole life. Making art has always been very important to me and I am quite passionate about creating. While my main focus is drawing and painting, I currently work as a jewelry designer which lends itself nicely to my need for creative expression and love of design.

When you’re not making things, what do you do?

I love hanging out with my cool, talented husband and two mischievous cats, Boris and Natasha. We love to look through flea markets searching for unique collectibles, travel and watch old movies together.

Is creativity a luxury or a necessity for you?

Creativity is definitely a necessity for me. It’s something that’s been a very significant part of my life that simply makes me feel really good. It’s incredibly rewarding and just a very natural part of me.

Where do you find inspiration?

I think there are bits and pieces of inspiration in everyday life. The past is fascinating. Paris also holds a very special place in my heart. I find travel to be incredibly inspiring, but Paris in general is an artist’s dream.

What’s on the horizon for you and what you do?

I’m expanding my brand, Karlin Collette Designs, and constantly working on different pieces. Illustrating children’s books, a new merchandise line and participating in more art shows are a few things on the horizon.

What would be your perfect day off?

My perfect day off would begin with the perfect cup of coffee, followed by a whole day of lounging around, daydreaming, creating, reading about what’s going on in the world, eating delicious spicy food and just surrounding myself with my favorite things, cats and people.

What inspiring advice would you give to other creatives be they established or just starting out?

Creative people have an influential and profound presence in society. My advice to other creatives is to continue making things with passion and wonder and try to never lose that special euphoric feeling that comes with bringing an idea to life.

Who are the makers that inspire you?

I’m inspired by unique works of art that make me think and feel. I love the works of Goya, Edward Gorey, Franz Kline, Alexander McQueen, Mark Ryden and Caravaggio among many others. My favorite art movements include Romanticism, Surrealism, Post-Impressionism and Low Brow Art. I love all of these aesthetics and am in constant awe of their substance and beauty.

Beatrice Bee_Jones Birdie_Jones Delia's Demise_Jones Karlin Collette Designs Karlin Collette Designs_Jewelry Karlin Jones Red Velvet_Jones

2 Comments

  1. Karlin’s art and her passion for art is very sweet and catchy.
    Allways looking foreward to see her new works, new creations.
    Good luck dear.

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